Treadle Sewing Machine
 

How do I tell the age of an old treadle machine? I have my grandmothers, she died about 20 yrs ago at the age of 94 so I know it is old. but have no idea how to find out. Thanks to all who can help...

Are you able to post a photo of your machine? If not, can you tell us the maker so we can tell you were to look for information on the machine that will help us help you?

best,
d

Just in case it is a Singer........Here is a link to Singer's website where you can find the year by serial numbers:
http://www.singerco.com/support/machine-serial-numbers

This is a wonderful reference for Singer owners.

Sewing Machine Photo
 

This is a picture of my Singer Treadle machine. I am unable to get to the serial number due to where my machine sits & me having a broken ankle I can't read it. Thanks for every ones help I appreciate it.

Actually the serial number is right there on the right front corner of the bed...on that little metal tag right in front of the column. It may start with 1 or 2 letters, or be just numbers. But that's the serial number. That's what you use to look it up on the Singer listing that is already posted above. Let us know what you find!!

Judy,

I'm sure of one thing, it's a Singer Mdl 66, and I think it's a 66-1. The -1's have the rear mounted presser feet and attachments.

The serial number will tell you it's age.

Joe

And, she's a beaut!

A quick soft, wipe-down with sewing machine oil will have your running for your sunglasses. She looks to be in great shape.

Take a moment and write down her history on a slip of paper and stick it in a drawer. Somebody, someday will be happy you did.

Congrats on being able to have a 'family machine'.

best,
d

Thanks everyone, I found the serial number I thought it was on the round tag in the back of the machine but it wasn't it was right in front of me on the front . It is a 1922 (G962 series) and am very happy I now know.

Thanks again to everyone who replied, you made my day.

Oh my goodness, it is beautiful, all the decals are in great shape. Just take a little sewing machine oil on a soft cotton fabric and gently rub it down to clean the machine. This will not damage the decals. You will be amazed at how your new machine will look. Send us a picture after you get it cleaned up. Befores and afters are always fun to look at. The chrome can be cleaned with a metal cleaner such as Mothers.

Treadle Sewing machine
 

Thanks, I really love it but it is not in running condition, I do not know the last time it was used. I have had it for over 20 years and before that it was in my grandmother's basement. I remember the day I brought it home in a little hatch back. My uncle was not very happy with me as he was alone carrying it up the stairs and putting in my little car and when I got home my son and I took it out, he can't understand what it means to me and how much I love it. It probably needs a good oiling and the belt for the treadle is broken and extremley dry, I don't know where to get it replaced & don't have an instruction manual for oiling it. Would love to try to use it some day.

Judy,

I had one in my garage for 12 years and it had been unused for who knows how long before that.
In less than an hour of oiling and putting on a new belt it was a running machine. There is likely nothing wrong at all with that 66 other than it's dried out inside. Use real sewing machine oil in the machine, I like the Singer stuff when I can find it. Don't forget the joints on the treadle. They need oiling too.

Joe

Thanks for the information, I will try it, but first I need to replace the belt so I will need to do some research to see if any of my local sewing repair shops carry them.

Thanks again, I really appreciate all the good advice.
Judy

If you don't have a local sewing machine guy, I know of some that have used leather boot laces, sewn together. Check in the vintage sewing machine shop and ask there.

What a precious treasure. How lucky you are.


am a former MIchigander!!
you can have your winters.

Judy, you are so lucky. That is a beautiful machine. I have one too. The Red Eye is one of my favorites. After you get Her cleaned up She will be sparkling and make you so happy. You can also get the belts off eBay. I just ordered one for a friend of mine. Please post Pic's of Her after She is cleaned and sparkling. Joy

I have successfully used plastic tubing for a treadle belt. There is a small connector you can buy to join it. It works as well as the leather belt but lasts longer. Any pet store and most hardware stores sell this. It doesn't look traditional so I do use leather but always keep this around for emergencies.

She is a beauty. It is a real treasure to have your grandmother's treadle machine.

Judy, you lucky gal! My grandmother died when I was six. I can remember seeing her treadle, always with the cover on, and I wasn't allowed to touch. It went when the house was cleared. I have been making up for the loss of that machine ever since.

You can get treadle belts online from Treadle Lady's website, www.treadlelady.com

I'd love to pop round and clean up the machine with you, but distance is a problem, so I hope you enjoy my videos on Youtube (see the sticky thread at the beginning of this section for the links). Treat yourself to a tube of metal polish - I use Peek, made in England (hurrah hurrah) and available in the States. If you can't find it in the shops buy it online at www.tripeek.com Your machine should clean up a treat. Don't forget to post photos when you've finished!